Long-time county employee Pam Tripp has resigned as Texas County Jail administrator effective immediately, according to the latest minutes released by the Texas County Commission.
During a July 5 meeting with Sheriff James Sigman, the commissioners learned of Tripp’s departure. The move was one week after inmate Christopher Hunt escaped from a transport van while returning to the Texas County Jail. He was later apprehended in Kentucky the same day of the meeting.
Also during the meeting, commissioners:
•Learned that an employee, Jennifer Tomaszewski, was placed on light duty following a June 26 fire at the Texas County Jail.
The period was June 30 – July 5. According to an incident report, she had complained of chest pain, cough, severe headache, difficulty sleeping and dizziness. She was treated at Texas County Memorial Hospital for smoke inhalation after inmates set fire to the jail. Three persons are charged.
• Reviewed a resignation letter from Van Fiegenschue, who said he would no longer work in the jail, but would be available for certain assignments. That resignation was effective June 27, according to the minutes.
• Heard from Sigman there is a need for four employees for the jail.
The commission also heard from the sheriff regarding repairs needed at the jail following the fire. Discussion occurred about changing one skylight in each pod to a large exhaust fan, which would be handled at the jail’s control center. The cost would be $9,165 for five units. An insurance adjuster has been on the scene, it was reported.
The commission also held a closed meeting with the sheriff and deputy Travis Davis.